The lap band  is an adjustable gastric band placed around the top part of the stomach  by laparoscopic surgery. It is designed to treat obesity for patients  who have a BMI of 40 or higher. In some patients that have certain  conditions that are known to get better with the loss of weight such as  GERD, diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension,  and osteoarthritis it may be approved for people with a lower BMI as  low as 35. It was approved by the FDA in 2001 but is only considered  after other methods have failed.

It  is available in several places. But due to the relative newness of this  procedure it can require travel to find a doctor to perform the  surgery. The lap band Los Angeles  is currently one of the places it is readily available. All patients  should keep in mind that though this sounds like a great option, surgery  for the obese can be quite risky. The operation can be a source of pain  and risk. However, it is the least invasive of all weight loss  procedures of this nature. There is no cutting or stapling involved. No  part of the intestines or other organs is disturbed.

  The gastric band is made of biocompatible materials. Weight loss surgery  in the past may disqualify the patient for laparoscopic surgery and  require a more open approach. Laparoscopy is done with a very small  incision and a camera so the surgeon can see. He or she makes a space  for the band and then fastens it around the stomach, much like a belt.  As weight loss is achieved, the band must be adjusted to maintain weight  loss. This is done in a less invasive way than surgery and can be done  in a clinic. It may take several adjustments to get it at the right  level for optimal performance.

  The lapband  is a great option for weight loss but only after other methods have  been tried. Patients will need to have a BMI of 40 or be 100 pounds over  their ideal weight. Typically the patient must be between the ages of  18 and 55; however, some exceptions are made for younger patients. The  patient must have tried a medically supervised diet for about 6 months  without success. There must be a history of obesity for at least the  previous 5 years but this depends upon insurance requirements. The band  is a lifelong procedure and the patient must be willing to comply with restrictions to achieve success.

  For more information visit:

  www.surgithin.com
7320 Woodlake Ave #170
West Hills, CA 91307